There are so many kitchen countertop options available to you when updating your space that it can be overwhelming and difficult to determine which style best suits your family’s needs. There are so many different styles, materials, and shapes to choose from, it’s important to understand not only what’s out there, but also the pros and cons of each option. Will you choose a granite or marble countertop? Stainless steel or recycled glass? The information in this article will help you choose the kitchen countertop that best suits your needs.
A countertop needs to be able to withstand the constant use of your family while remaining durable, easy to maintain, and pleasing to the eye. Laminate countertops are a very popular choice for many homeowners as they are strong, durable and cost effective. Laminate is a man-made material constructed of plywood, chipboard, or fiberboard and topped with a plastic laminate cover. Laminate is easy to maintain; resistant to water and stains and available in many colors, textures and patterns. However, it can chip and scratch easily and is not heat resistant.
Wood or butcher block countertops are made from a natural material and are available in wood species such as beech, maple, and teak. This durable, heat-resistant countertop is easy to clean and doubles as a chopping surface. While plentiful, wood countertops tend to blacken when repeatedly exposed to water and can scratch or even burn when not properly protected from intense heat.
Available in a variety of finishes, including polished, matte or patterned, stainless steel countertops are an incredibly durable and hygienic material. Stainless steel is resistant to both water and heat, making it an ideal countertop; however, it is quite expensive and often feels cold and sterile. It is also difficult to maintain the shine and luster of stainless steel and you will be constantly rubbing off small fingerprints.
Granite is a popular and stylish choice for kitchen countertops, creating a gourmet feel in any kitchen. It is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns and is unique in that no two slabs of granite are exactly alike. Granite is a natural stone that resists water, heat and stains and is easy to clean; however, it is quite expensive and requires annual resealing to maintain its beauty and shine.
Just like granite, marble is also a natural stone and exudes class and sophistication. Marble is available in a variety of colors and patterns and is highly durable. However, like granite, it is an expensive option that requires sealing to maintain its beauty. Marble stains easily, making it a more practical choice for a bathroom or work area than a kitchen.
Finally, glass countertops are made from recycled glass and are an environmentally friendly option, available in a multitude of colours. Glass is water, heat and scratch resistant and will not burn or stain; however, it is not an ideal chipping surface and can lose its shine over time if not treated properly.
With so many options available when it comes to kitchen countertops, it’s important to know what’s available before making a final decision.